Transitioning out of the military is a significant life change, filled with both challenges and opportunities. The Department of Defense Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is designed to support that change. As noted by Military OneSource, “The DoD Transition Assistance Program is mandatory for separating service members who have served 180 continuous days or more on active duty. TAP offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip service members with the tools and resources to succeed in their civilian lives.”
TAP encourages early preparation: “Service members must complete TAP no later than a year before leaving the military. Retiring service members should begin the process at least two years before retirement.” For those facing an unexpected separation or early demobilization, TAP begins as soon as possible. While operational realities can sometimes interfere with ideal timelines, the goal remains clear: prepare service members for civilian success.
A Voice for Change: The Strategic Veteran
Adam Peters, who served in the Army from 2003 to 2015 and medically retired as a Staff Sergeant, understands firsthand the urgency of a successful transition. But he found the blueprints that seem common don’t reflect the realities veterans get. Adam’s experience reflects a broader truth: even when TAP is delivered as designed, the transition to civilian life isn’t one-size-fits-all. “I don’t want other people having to make the same mistakes I do,” Adam said. He’s since dedicated his post-service life to advocating for a more flexible, individualized approach to veteran transition.
Finding a Better Way
A 2024 Congressional Research Service study reinforced Adam’s concerns: “Oversight concerns continue to be focused on program implementation and effectiveness… Given GAO’s findings of up to 70% of servicemembers out of compliance…”
Rather than criticize without action, Adam created “The Stronghold,” a community for veterans who want to transition successfully without falling into the traps many encounter. His podcast, newsletter, and public speaking focus on empowering veterans with real-life tools and mentorship.
“I really just think that nobody’s taken a hard look at it like this,” Adam said. “What I am out here saying is the way TAP is currently formatted, it’s a one-size-fits-all blanket program and transition is such an individual process.”
He calls for a coaching-centered, holistic approach. “What Aaron needs when he gets out of the army is not what Adam needed when he got out… We all had different life experiences… and we need to be treated as such.”
A New Kind of Leadership
Adam credits his leadership mindset from his time as an Infantryman: “Leaders in the military don’t eat until their subordinates do.” But post-service, he realized that veterans also need to take care of themselves. “You need to put yourself first before you can put others first.”
He emphasizes the need to unlearn certain military indoctrinations that may hinder civilian success. Advocacy, self-awareness, and emotional well-being are crucial components of a smooth transition—and areas where more focused coaching could help.
Reimagining the Process
Adam envisions a “transition boot camp,” where service members would work full-time on preparing for civilian life. He imagines a system where each transitioning member is assigned a coach or counselor who helps them explore their interests and receive tailored training.
“You want to be a software engineer? Great. Let’s get you some on-the-job training. You want to fly planes? Let’s get you flight hours.”
Leading by Example
Adam’s mission isn’t about attention or accolades. “I’m doing this because I genuinely want to help people. I genuinely want to be the guy that I did not have when I transitioned.”
Through his podcast, community platform, and daily engagement with fellow veterans, Adam provides a space where service members can get support and real talk without stigma.
Resources and Contact
Veterans and transitioning service members can connect with Adam Peters through TheStrategicVeteran.com, or his podcast, “The Strategic Veteran.” His message is simple: TAP is a starting point, but there’s room to grow—together.
